The population of Queensland has grown substantially in recent times and at the same time mining exploration activities have been increasing.  As the buffer between the urban areas and exploration activities decreases, communities and local government are becoming increasingly concerned about exploration activities close to urban areas.

 As a result, in August 2011, the Queensland Government announced a temporary freeze on new applications for mining exploration in urban areas.

 In order to protect the interests of those living in urban and semi-rural areas, the State Government has declared certain areas as ‘Restricted Area’ under the Mineral Resources Act 1989.  Restricted Areas are as follows:

• In SEQ, all towns (as defined by the SEQ Regional Plan 2009-2031) plus a 2 km buffer zone; and
• Outside SEQ, towns with a population of 1,000 or more plus a 2km buffer zone.

Towns within the Restricted Area in the Bowen Basin include:

• Biloela;                                 
• Dysart;
• Blackwater;                                      
• Emerald;
• Bowen;                                                            
• Glenden;
• Clermont;                                         
• Middlemount;
• Collinsville;                                       
• Moranbah;
• Moura;                                              
• Tieri.

As a result of the declaration, the State Government will not accept applications for any exploration permits within the Restricted Areas.  The declaration will impact on any new mineral and coal exploration permit application excluding industrial minerals (inc. clay, quartz, sandstone).

 Additionally, holders of exploration tenures will be requested to voluntarily surrender areas from their tenure within the Restricted Areas.

 These restrictions are intended as a temporary measure to ease the concerns of communities.  The State Government aims to develop a permanent solution with local governments, communities and industry stakeholders.